Seven community college leaders recognized in 2025 Business NC ‘Power List’

Recognized as Among the Most Influential Figures in the State 

RALEIGH, NC — Business North Carolina has released its 2025 Power List, recognizing seven leaders from the North Carolina Community College System as some of the state’s most influential individuals. The annual list features approximately 500 people who are shaping the future of North Carolina through leadership in business, policy, and community impact. 

Among those honored are four community college presidents, two members of the State Board of Community Colleges, and System President Jeff Cox. Their inclusion highlights the growing recognition of North Carolina’s community colleges as a driving force behind workforce development and economic growth. 

Honorees from the NC Community College System include: 

• Dr. Jeff Cox, President, North Carolina Community College System
• Tom Looney, Chair, State Board of Community Colleges
• John Kane, Vice Chair, State Board of Community Colleges
• Dr. Laura Leatherwood, President, Blue Ridge Community College
• Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, President, Central Piedmont Community College
• Dr. John Hauser, President, Gaston College
• Dr. Scott Ralls, President, Wake Technical Community College 

“This recognition speaks to the incredible work being done across our colleges every day,” said Dr. Cox. “Our leaders are not just educating students—they’re helping power North Carolina’s economy by preparing a skilled, adaptable workforce. I’m proud to stand alongside these exceptional colleagues.” 

Honoree Highlights: 

Dr. Jeff Cox, who became System President in 2023, brings a broad background in education that includes roles as a teacher, principal, superintendent, college president, and now president of the System. He has championed collaboration between the state’s 58 colleges and employers to close critical workforce gaps.

Tom Looney was named chairman of the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges in July 2023 after 40 years with IBM and Lenovo. He says he is, “passionate about workforce development, protecting the coastal environment and changing people’s lives through education.”  

John Kane, founder of Kane Realty and vice chair of the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges, turned over CEO duties last year, but the best-known Raleigh developer remains active in the business and community. The company develops mixed-use communities, regional malls, neighborhood and community centers, offices, hotels, and health centers. 

Dr. Laura Leatherwood, President of Blue Ridge Community College, has led the college since 2017 after working at Haywood Community College for 21 years. She emphasizes Blue Ridge’s small classes, customized training and affordability as pathways toward a successful future.  

Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, President of Central Piedmont Community College, served community colleges in North Carolina, Kentucky and Florida before becoming Central Piedmont’s president in 2017. Enrollment of degree-seeking students increased 9% to about 20,600 in the fall 2024 semester. 

Dr. John Hauser, President of Gaston College, brought more than 30 years of leadership and administrative experience in the state’s community college system when he became Gaston’s president in 2020. He is former president of Carteret Community College and spent 20 years at Wilkes Community College.  

Dr. Scott Ralls, President of Wake Technical Community College, leads the largest community college in North Carolina. Wake Tech is one of 29 colleges or universities in the U.S. designated a Frontier Series College by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. He is a recipient of the Distinguished Public Service Award from the N.C. Chamber. 

This marks the fifth year of the annual Business North Carolina Power List, with honorees nominated by the public and selected for their leadership and influence across sectors. 

Read the full Power List 2025 here.